Location: Haddenham, Oxfordshire – OX11
Contract: Permanent | Full-Time
Hours: 40 hours per week
Salary: Up to £48,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications
Setting: Nursery for up to 65 children
Team: Approximately 25 staff

About the Role

ACR Recruitment & Training Ltd are delighted to be supporting a well-established nursery in Haddenham, Oxfordshire with the recruitment of an experienced and passionate Nursery Manager.

This is an exciting opportunity for an Early Years leader to take responsibility for the day-to-day management of a nursery caring for up to 65 children, while leading and supporting a dedicated team of approximately 25 staff.

The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining high standards of care, education and safeguarding, while creating a positive environment where children, families and staff can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Take overall responsibility for the effective day-to-day management of the nursery
• Lead, support and motivate a team of approximately 25 staff
• Ensure the nursery provides a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for children
• Maintain high standards of Early Years practice in line with the EYFS framework
• Ensure safeguarding policies and procedures are consistently followed
• Support staff development through effective leadership, mentoring and performance management
• Maintain strong relationships with parents, carers and the wider nursery community
• Oversee planning, observations, assessments and children's development
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels, ratios and operational requirements are maintained
• Monitor and maintain high standards of health & safety, hygiene and compliance
• Work collaboratively with the nursery leadership team to drive continuous improvement
• Support the recruitment, induction and development of nursery staff
• Maintain a positive, inclusive and professional nursery culture

What We're Looking For

• A relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification or above – essential
• Previous experience in a Nursery Manager or senior Early Years leadership position
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework, safeguarding and child development
• Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop a nursery team
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• A confident and professional approach to nursery management
• Strong understanding of Ofsted requirements and Early Years best practice
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families and colleagues
• A genuine passion for providing high-quality Early Years education and care
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to obtain one

Why Apply?

• Salary up to £48,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications
• Permanent, full-time position
• 40 hours per week
• Lead an established nursery with up to 65 children
• Manage and develop a team of approximately 25 staff
• Opportunity to make a genuine impact on the quality and success of the setting
• Supportive professional environment
• Opportunities for ongoing development and career progression

Ready for Your Next Leadership Opportunity?

If you're an experienced Early Years professional looking for your next challenge and have the leadership skills to manage and develop a successful nursery team, we'd love to hear from you.